Newcastle United goalkeeper Rob Elliot has insisted that Karl Darlow has what it takes to fill in between the sticks following his season-ending injury.
Elliot sustained damage to his anterior cruciate ligament during Republic of Ireland's 2-2 draw with Slovakia on Tuesday night, ruling him out for Newcastle's crucial run-in.
Regular number one Tim Krul is also out for the season with a knee injury, leaving Darlow as their only remaining senior goalkeeper for the final eight games of the season.
"He's a great guy, he gets what Newcastle is all about and he works hard every day to get an opportunity like this. He deserves that roar from our fans like I had," Elliot told the club's official website.
"I messaged him as soon as I knew about my injury because I wanted him to know and to be ready. I know how good a goalkeeper he is already and how good he is going to be."
Newcastle return to action in a crucial relegation battle against fellow strugglers Norwich City on Saturday.
Barney Corkhill
